Super Eagles Settle For Draw As Poland Snatch Late Equaliser

Super Eagles Settle For Draw As Poland Snatch Late Equaliser

By Niyi Busari 

Super Eagles were denied a valuable victory on Wednesday after conceding a stoppage-time equaliser in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Poland in an international friendly in Warsaw, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

A stunning 95th-minute strike from Przemyslaw Wisniewski rescued a draw for the hosts and denied Nigeria what would have been an impressive away victory over the European side.

The result serves as another important step in the Super Eagles’ preparations for upcoming international assignments, with a high-profile friendly against Portugal scheduled for June 10.

Moffi Gives Nigeria First-Half Advantage

Head coach Eric Chelle named a strong starting XI, handing a debut to Abdullahi Bewene alongside Igoh Ogbu, Emmanuel Fernandez and Bruno Onyemaechi in defence. Maduka Okoye started in goal, while Wilfred Ndidi, Tochukwu Nnadi and Frank Onyeka anchored the midfield. Akor Adams, Terem Moffi and Moses Simon led the attack.

Poland threatened early and nearly opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Jakub Kaminski failed to make proper contact with a free header from close range.

Nigeria also endured an early scare as Akor Adams almost diverted a corner into his own net, with the ball narrowly missing the target. Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski later tested Okoye from a set piece, but the goalkeeper responded comfortably.

The Super Eagles gradually settled into the contest and took the lead in the 23rd minute. Moses Simon delivered a low cross into the area and Moffi applied a composed finish from close range. Although the goal underwent a VAR review, it was eventually awarded to hand Nigeria a deserved advantage.

Poland responded with sustained pressure, forcing Okoye into several important saves, including a crucial intervention midway through the first half. Nigeria, however, finished the opening period strongly, with Nnadi drawing a save from distance as the visitors carried a 1-0 lead into the break.

Poland Respond as Chelle Rings the Changes

The hosts levelled the score shortly after halftime when Nigeria failed to clear a corner, allowing Kaylee Potulski to capitalise on a loose ball inside the penalty area.

Seeking a response, Chelle introduced several fresh legs, bringing on Calvin Bassey, Raphael Onyedika, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi, Philip Otele, Rafiu Durosinmi and Paul Onuachu.

The changes revitalised Nigeria’s attack. Otele immediately posed a threat with dangerous deliveries into the box, while Sanusi tested the Polish goalkeeper with a powerful effort from range.

Onuachu Restores Nigeria’s Lead

Nigeria’s attacking intent was rewarded in the 77th minute when they were awarded a penalty after a handball inside the area.

Onuachu stepped up and calmly converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to restore the Super Eagles’ lead.

With Okoye producing a series of vital saves, including key stops from Lewandowski and other late Polish efforts, Nigeria appeared on course for victory.

Wisniewski Breaks Nigerian Hearts

However, the Super Eagles’ resistance was finally broken deep into stoppage time.

In the 95th minute, Wisniewski struck a powerful volley from long range that flew beyond Okoye and into the net, sparking celebrations among the home supporters and ensuring the match ended 2-2.

While the late setback will disappoint Chelle and his players, Nigeria can take encouragement from an energetic performance that showcased attacking quality, squad depth and resilience against strong opposition.

Attention now turns to next week’s friendly against Portugal, another significant test as the Super Eagles continue preparations for future competitive fixtures.